Get ready for a sweet and salty treat with these salted caramel pretzel overnight oats! This fun breakfast mixes creamy oats with crunchy pretzels and yummy caramel flavor.
It’s a great way to start your day! I love making it the night before, so all I have to do in the morning is grab a spoon and enjoy. Who doesn’t love breakfast waiting for them?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are essential for this recipe, as they soak up the liquid and become creamy. You can use quick oats for a softer texture, but avoid steel-cut oats since they need longer cooking.
Milk: Feel free to use any milk, like almond, soy, or oat milk, if you prefer a non-dairy version. I love using almond milk for its nutty taste.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional, but it adds a nice creaminess and a protein boost. You can substitute it with any yogurt, or skip it entirely for a lighter option.
Caramel Sauce: You can use store-bought caramel or make your own! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using date syrup or a sugar-free version.
Pretzels: The crunch of pretzels is key! If you need a gluten-free option, seek out gluten-free pretzels or use chopped nuts for crunch without the gluten.
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Creamy and Flavorful?
The secret to creamy overnight oats lies in the right balance of ingredients. Start by combining oats with enough liquid to soak them overnight. Adjust the liquids based on your preference for thickness. Here are key tips:
- Mix oats and milk in a jar or bowl and stir well to avoid clumps.
- For extra creaminess, add Greek yogurt and vanilla. Use full-fat yogurt for a rich texture.
- Let the oats soak for at least 6 hours or overnight, which allows them to absorb the flavors and soften.
Before serving, give it a good stir to mix everything together. Top with pretzels and chocolate right before you eat for a delightful crunch!
Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond milk)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
Flavoring:
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (to enhance salted caramel flavor)
Crunchy Elements:
- 1/4 cup crushed pretzels (plus some whole pretzels for topping)
- 2 tbsp chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
Optional Ingredients:
- 1-2 tsp chia seeds (for thickness and added nutrition)
- Sweetener to taste (maple syrup, honey, or sugar, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 6 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick mix-and-go option for a delicious breakfast you can enjoy the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Grab a mixing bowl or a jar with a lid. Start by adding the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of oats.
2. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’d like some extra thickness and nutrition, toss in the chia seeds and mix them in carefully. If you like it a bit sweeter, add your chosen sweetener like maple syrup or honey at this point and stir again.
3. Fold in the Pretzels:
Gently fold in the crushed pretzels, but keep some whole pretzels aside for decoration later. This will give your overnight oats a nice crunch!
4. Refrigerate:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight, so the oats can soak up all the delicious flavors.
5. Stir and Serve:
In the morning, give the mixture a good stir. If it looks too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Spoon your oats into a serving glass or bowl.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Drizzle some extra caramel sauce around the inside of the glass or directly on top of the oats for a sweet surprise. Then, top with whole pretzels and chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for extra flavor and crunch.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your salted caramel pretzel overnight oats. You’ll love the combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty in every spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Oats?
Yes! While rolled oats are recommended for their texture, you can also use quick oats for a softer result. Just avoid steel-cut oats as they need longer cooking and won’t soften adequately overnight.
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have any leftover oats, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give them a good stir and add a splash of milk if they thicken up too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
What Can I Substitute for Caramel Sauce?
If you don’t have caramel sauce on hand, consider using date syrup, maple syrup for a different flavor, or even a sugar-free sweetner. Just remember, each will provide a slightly different taste!
